Corrosion/Buildup on Water Pump

[HawkeyeJones]

Hey all. Just discovered some crusty white buildup on the base of my water pump (pictured). Any ideas what this is, and should I be doing something about it? Thanks!

 

[John From Detroit]

Idea yes. Good enough to type no. Suggested procedure however that I can do.

Clean it off (Stiff brush and possibly wet rag or water. And dry compartment if necessary

lay paper towlign down.. USING the pump to provide water to the RV (Fill the tank) Check the toweling tomorrow. Still dry. I'm wrong. WET you have a leak (NOTE might not be very wet)

 

[OldWEB]

Just a form of aluminum oxide I think. It’s not iron so not rust. It’s a form of aluminum corrosion but totally normal.

 

[Kirk]

I'm curious about the pump. What make/model is it? It doesn't look like any that I'm familiar with.

 

[Mark_K5LXP]

Mine's over 20 years old and doesn't look like that. Indicates persistent moisture and being at the interface of the inlet/outlet and body of the pump the gasket/o-ring isn't doing it's job. Over time that interface will only degrade further. My vote would be to take it apart, surface grind the faces, put a new gasket in with maybe a little sealant and the clock is reset.

Mark B.
Albuquerque, NM

 

[Gary RV_Wizard]

Aluminum typically doesn't corrode like that merely from moisture, but it's possible if the water being pumped is often "hard" (laden with metallic ions). And No, it's not "normal".
I'd clean it with a stiff brush and wash with a solution of vinegar or lemon juice. A scrubbing pad helps. Keep an eye on it for sign of leakage or continued corrosion.

 

[gwinger]

Is there any liquids or cleaning products stored the bay that may be leaking. Certain chemicals can release corrosive fumes.